Wheelchair Ramp Codes & Requirements

Whether you're outfitting a business entrance or adding a ramp to your home, the guides in this section translate the actual code language — ADA Standards, IBC, IRC, and OSHA — into plain English, with charts and worked examples you can act on.

Commercial and public ramps are governed by the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design.

The core rules: a running slope no steeper than 1:12 (one inch of rise per foot of ramp), at least 36 inches of clear width between handrails, a maximum 30 inches of rise per run, 60-inch level landings at the top, bottom, and every turn, handrails on both sides wherever the rise exceeds 6 inches, and edge protection to keep wheels on the surface. Our ADA Ramp Slope guide walks through each requirement with a rise-to-length chart.

Residential ramps typically aren't required to meet ADA

private homes follow state and local building codes, which vary. Most inspectors reference the IRC, and many jurisdictions require a permit for a permanent modular ramp. When in doubt, build to the ADA's 1:12 slope anyway: it's the standard every mobility equipment manufacturer designs around, and it's the safest grade for independent wheelchair use. Not sure what length that means for your steps? Start with the Ramp Sizing Guide or let the Ramp Wizard calculate it for you.

Every ramp system we sell is engineered to meet these standards — our PATHWAY HD line is purpose-built for ADA commercial compliance. Questions about a specific installation? Call us at 866-491-1110.